Flat Top's IL project complete!!!!

[flat top]

Well, I finally got my IL project done! I am very pleased with the results. I removed the entire lock assembly, and fabricated replacement parts to not only plug the hole, but, to fill the gap (or slot) left in the frame to the left side of the hammer. The hole plug has a smooth non-slotted surface and looks very "clean". All the parts with the exception of the spacers (7075 T-6 Aluminum), were made of stainless steel to match the finish of my 629. The best part about this is that there is no modification (drilling, tapping, machining, etc) necessary, and the lock can be reinstalled at any time to satisfy a sale, or the factory warranty. I originally intended to produce this item as a kit, but given the nature of mass-manufactured products, and the variations in manufacturing tolerances, and the close tolerances necessary to insure a proper fit of these peices, I decided to maintain the copyright on this design through my company, and allow S&W forum members to use the design if they care to. As time permits, I will put something together that forum members can use to fabricate these IL replacement parts, and if a forum member would email me now, to act as a mediary to post photo's and directions it would be appreciated (I just dont have the time to expend doing all this myself). By the way, I had carried my IL 629 for about a year, not knowing that the locks were subject to failure and therefore disabling the firearm. I owe this forum for that information, and this is my way of saying thanks to all of you! FT

 

[flat top]

Well, I finally got my IL project done! I am very pleased with the results. I removed the entire lock assembly, and fabricated replacement parts to not only plug the hole, but, to fill the gap (or slot) left in the frame to the left side of the hammer. The hole plug has a smooth non-slotted surface and looks very "clean". All the parts with the exception of the spacers (7075 T-6 Aluminum), were made of stainless steel to match the finish of my 629. The best part about this is that there is no modification (drilling, tapping, machining, etc) necessary, and the lock can be reinstalled at any time to satisfy a sale, or the factory warranty. I originally intended to produce this item as a kit, but given the nature of mass-manufactured products, and the variations in manufacturing tolerances, and the close tolerances necessary to insure a proper fit of these peices, I decided to maintain the copyright on this design through my company, and allow S&W forum members to use the design if they care to. As time permits, I will put something together that forum members can use to fabricate these IL replacement parts, and if a forum member would email me now, to act as a mediary to post photo's and directions it would be appreciated (I just dont have the time to expend doing all this myself). By the way, I had carried my IL 629 for about a year, not knowing that the locks were subject to failure and therefore disabling the firearm. I owe this forum for that information, and this is my way of saying thanks to all of you! FT

 

[Raider]

We will be be looking forward to your instructions and photos. Thanks!

 

[flat top]

Raider; Thanks! I just hope it is something that someone will find useful. I have a photo of the finished parts on my 629, and if someone (who can post a photo on this sight) will email me, I will send it along to them for you all to see. Right now...its back to work, I will be back on this evening.

 

[Mickstix]

I'll host the photos and any instructions you'd like, Flat top.. I'll shoot ya an email here in a sec!

 

[flat top]

Mickstix; I recieved your email, and have one on the way to you. Cant thank you enough for the assistance!!! FT

 

[Mickstix]

No prob! Pix up in a sec.!

 

[Dashriprock]

Any progress here? Would very much like to see the photos. Thanks in advance.

 

[flat top]

Yes! I just sent the final basic drawings and tutorial off to Mickstix (forum member who is helping me out). I am sure he will get this posted as soon as he can. Thanks for your interest, and, I hope you can use this idea.

 

[Dashriprock]

Champing at the bit here, gents. If you need someone else to host the photos, etc, send them along to me.

 

[grub348]

flat top, My 686+ is sitting patiently in a pie pan, with a large hole in the frame where the Infernal Lock was located. Please post your drawings and photos as soon as you are able as I have had to resort to carrying a 1911 ! I can't wait !!!!

 

[VM]

flat top, My 686+ is sitting patiently in a pie pan, with a large hole in the frame where the Infernal Lock was located. Please post your drawings and photos as soon as you are able as I have had to resort to carrying a 1911 ! I can't wait !!!!

flat top recently sent me this link

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-smithing/80075-flat-tops-remove-lock-project-complete-pix-all.html

 

[Scrapper]

Glad to help you need FT.